Disclaimer: The information in this plant medicine preparation guide is general and does not constitute medical advice. It is not an exhaustive list of all conditions that may put you at risk. Please consult a doctor before considering psychedelic plant medicines. If you’re unsure, you must disclose all health and medication details with us. For generally restricted or at risk conditions, please refer to restricted health condition list.
- General Preparation Guidelines
- How to Prepare for An Ayahuasca / Peyote / Magic Mushroom Ceremony
- How to Prepare for A Bufo Alvarius Ceremony
- How to Prepare for A Kambo Detox Ceremony
Plant medicines, often referred to as psychedelics or entheogens, are substances derived from plants that induce altered states of consciousness. They have been used for centuries in various cultures for spiritual, healing, and ceremonial purposes. This plant medicine preparation guide, however, covers a broader definition of plant medicine, which includes both psychedelic and non-psychedelic plants that are used for healing purposes.
Important considerations:
- Legality: Research local and national laws regarding possession, cultivation, and use of plant medicines. In Mexico, the use of plant medicine by indigenous groups is permitted as it’s been part of their cultural and religious practice since 4,000 B.C. That’s why at Aloee Wellness, we only partner with experienced Indigenous healers who have received blessings from the elders in the community.
- Safety: Prioritize safety by working with experienced guides, understanding potential risks, and having a safe setting.
- Respect: Approach plant medicines with reverence and respect for the plant and its traditional uses.
- Intention: Clearly define your intentions for using plant medicine.
General Plant Medicine Preparation Guidelines
- Research: Thoroughly research the specific plant medicine you intend to work with, including its history, effects, and potential risks.
- Set and Setting: Create a safe and supportive environment (setting) and cultivate a positive mindset (set). Meditate on your intention for the experience before.
- Integration: Plan for integration of the experience by journaling, meditation, or therapy.
- Physical Preparation: Ensure good hydration, nutrition, and sleep before the experience
Plant Medicine Preparation Guide:
How to Prepare for An Ayahuasca / Peyote / Psilocybin Mushroom Healing Ceremony
If your health condition checks all the marks and you’re good to attend the plant medicine ceremonies, you can start preparing for the sacred journey. Here is a comprehensive plant medicine preparation guide for ayahuasca, peyote, and mushroom ceremonies.
1. Medication Detox
This step is mandatory. Timing varies depending on the medication. Please consult with a medical professional or check with us before booking.
2. Dietary & Lifestyle Preparation
This step is voluntary. The following guide is our recommendation. It is at your discretion to follow. However, we recommend you follow as closely as possible. The better you prepare mentally and dietarily, the higher the chances you may maximize the results and minimize the potential discomfort during the journey.
About 7-14 days before, eliminate:
- Alcohol, cannabis, recreational drugs of any kind, especially synthetic DMT or other psychoactive substances
- Red meat & cured meats
About 3-14 days before, eliminate or significantly reduce:
- Processed foods (including fried, fermented, pickled foods)
- Sugar, natural or artificial sweeteners
- Caffeine (coffee, caffeinated tea, synthetic energy drinks)
- Dairy products, especially yogurt
- Reduce salt/salty food intake
- Spicy food
- Yeast or yeast products
- Vinegar
- Animal fats, including butter
- Nutritional supplements like protein powders that may contain tyramines
- Violent or disturbing media
- Sex of any sort, including self-pleasure or erotic fantasizing
At least 3 days before, eliminate:
- Processed foods (including fried, fermented, pickled foods)
- Sugar, natural or artificial sweeteners
- Caffeine (coffee, caffeinated tea, synthetic energy drinks)
- Dairy products, especially yogurt
- Spicy food
- Yeast or yeast products
- Vinegar
- Animal fats, including butter
- Nutritional supplements like protein powders that may contain tyramines
- Violent or disturbing media
- Sex of any sort, including self-pleasure or erotic fantasizing
- Painkillers (e.g. Advil) or vitamin supplements
Do eat:
- Increase water consumption
- Unsalted vegetables and vegetable broths
- Fresh fruits and fruit juice
- Well-cooked whole grains
- Organic chicken or turkey
- Low-sugar fruits
- Coconut or olive oil, sparingly
3. The Day of Your Ceremony
- Rest well the night before, no strenuous exercise during the day.
- Stop eating no less than four hours before the start of the ceremony (approximately 2 pm). It is best to eat blend, soft foods, and vegetable broths to be gentle on the stomach
4. What to Bring To The Ceremony
You will be spending 8-14 hours (or overnight) at the rustic ceremonial space in the jungle with wild birds and monkeys, beautiful stars, and fireflies in your company. The following items may make your stay more comfortable:
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, socks, and bring extra change of clothes and insect repellent.
- A personal water bottle for convenience (optional)
- Dry & plain snacks (i.e. nuts, plain crackers) for after the ceremony.
Plant Medicine Preparation Guide:
How to Prepare for A Bufo Alvarius Ceremony
1. Medication Detox (mandatory)
This step of the plant medicine preparation guide for Bufo Alvarius is mandatory. Timing varies depending on the medication. Please consult with a medical professional or check with us before booking.
2. Dietary & Lifestyle Preparation
At least 2-3 days before, eliminate:
- Alcohol & recreational drugs
- Red meat
- Caffeine
- Sugar
- Processed foods
Do Eat:
- Eat healthy and balanced meals
- Increase water consumption
3. The Day of Your Ceremony
- Fasting at least 6 hours before the ceremony
- Wear comfortable (preferably light-colored) clothing (optional)
Plant Medicine Preparation Guide:
How to Prepare for A Kambo Detox Ceremony
1. Medication Detox (mandatory)
This step of the plant medicine preparation guide for the Kambo Detox ceremony is mandatory. Timing varies depending on the medication. Please consult with a medical professional or check with us before booking.
2. Dietary & Lifestyle Preparation
We recommend you eliminate the following at least 2-3 days before:
- Alcohol & recreational drugs
- Red meat
- Caffeine
- Sugar
- Processed foods
Do Eat:
- Eat healthy and balanced meals
- Increase water consumption 1-2 hours before
3. The Day of Your Ceremony
- Fasting at least 12 hours before the ceremony
- Bring 3 liters of water to drink 1 hour before receiving Kambo.
- Wear comfortable (preferably light-colored) clothing (optional)
Mental Preparation & Integration
When it comes to healing preparation, it’s not just a matter of adjusting diet or detox medications. It is equally important to prepare mentally.
Before Your Healing Session
Rather than rushing from one activity to another, take some quiet time to center yourself by practicing these:
- Meditation: Spend a few minutes in silent meditation to calm your mind and set a positive intention for your session.
- Breath Work: Engage in deep, mindful breathing exercises to relax your body and mind.
- Intention: Take a moment to reflect on what you hope to achieve or release during your session.
By taking these steps, you create a mental and emotional space that allows you to be fully present and open to the healing process.
After Your Healing Session
What you do immediately after your session is equally important. Transitioning peacefully back to daily life helps you integrate the healing experience. We recommend allowing at least 4-6 hours of quiet time post-session. Here are some suggestions:
- Rest: Give your body the chance to relax and absorb the healing energy.
- Reflect: Take time to journal about your experience, noting any insights or emotions that arose.
- Gentle Activities: Engage in soothing activities like walking in nature, listening to calming music, or practicing gentle yoga.
- Allow Space: Try not to schedule an activity immediately after your session. Allow yourself the space to reflect, rest, and just “be”.
Following these recommendations helps you move forward with intention, making the most of your healing journey. By creating space before and after your session, you honor your well-being and set yourself up for lasting success.
More on integration in our FREE Integration Guide.